The Chiefs and people of the Lambussie Traditional Area have celebrated the 25th anniversary of the annual Mi-filee Gbero Festival with a resolute call for the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of peace as the primary drivers for economic development.

The festival, held on the theme “Promoting Peace and Unity among Our Diverse Cultures for Tourism and Economic Development,” brought together government officials, traditional rulers, and citizens to the Lambussie JHS park to reflect on the identity of the Sisaala people.Delivering the keynote address, the Paramount Chief of the Lambussie Traditional Area, Kuoro Issaka Zeng’eh Kazie Tenjie II, emphasized that while the area is home to over ten ethnic groups who have coexisted for generations, recent disturbances involving sections of the Dagara ethnic group have threatened this harmony. He disclosed that despite mediation efforts by the Upper West Regional Peace Council in April 2025, which produced resolutions on land use and customary practices, some affected settlers have refused to accept the agreements.

Kuoro Tenjie II stated firmly that the traditional authority would no longer accommodate actions seeking to undermine stability. He clarified that all residents, including members of the Dagara community, are required to observe established Sisaala customs governing land acquisition, construction, and funeral rites. He further warned that any individuals, including external elites instigating rebellious actions, would be dealt with in accordance with the law and customary sanctions.

Regarding infrastructure, the Paramount Chief appealed to the Presidency for the completion of the Lambussie District Hospital under the Agenda 111 programme, noting that work has halted despite reaching over 70 percent completion. He also called for urgent intervention on two major road projects: the Brutu Junction–Suke road and the Lambussie–Billaw road, which have been stalled due to payment challenges.

The Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing, underscored the importance of traditional authority in land administration and conflict resolution, reaffirming government’s commitment to sustainable development in the region.

The Member of Parliament for Lambussie, Hon. Prof. Titus K. Beyuo, highlighted the festival’s role as an anchor for the youth and announced several milestones, including the completion of the Lambussie community library and a 100,000 Ghana Cedi commitment to community projects and medical outreach.

The Chairman for the occasion, Hon. Moses Dramani Luri, urged parents to take pride in teaching the Sisaali language to the younger generation, warning that losing one’s mother tongue results in the loss of stories and wisdom. He pledged his support for initiatives promoting cultural education within the Bosie Traditional Area.

The celebration concluded with a vibrant display of cultural drumming and dancing, and a fundraiser for local development. Kuoro Tenjie II also announced plans to launch a District Museum and a Development Forum in 2026 to further mobilize resources for growth.

Bashiru Nuhu Bapagu/ Radford FM